AMD Introduces Sub-$100 Phenom II Microprocessor

From X-bit Labs: Advanced Micro Devices on Monday released five new microprocessors, among which there is the company’s first Phenom II chip that costs less than $100, which is also the company’s highest-performing dual-core product, energy-efficient high-speed quad-core central processing unit as well as value processors that strengthen AMD’s lineup on the entry-level market.

The new processors belong to AMD Athlon II and AMD Phenom II families and thus come in AM3 form-factor (while maintaining compatibility with AM2+ platforms), feature integrated dual-channel DDR2/DDR3 memory controller and are made using 45nm silicon-on-insulator process technology. Technology-wise, the new processors only differ from predecessors with clock-speeds and pricing, some also sport new C3 stepping of the core that adds C1E power consumption reduction technology.

Even though AMD’s Phenom II X2 555 Black Edition processor is AMD’s fastest dual-core chip, and the only Phenom II that costs less than $100, it will not be able to beat Intel Corp.’s latest dual-core offerings. Still, it has one benefit: unlocked multiplier, which greatly eases overclocking process.

The new central processing units will help AMD to improve its competitive position in its never-ending battle against Intel Corp.

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